DOXYCYCLINE

Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic. This medication fights bacteria in the body. Doxycycline is used to treat many bacterial infections such as: Acne, skin infections, lung infections, eye infections, sexually transmitted infections, gum disease, intestinal infections and many others. It is commonly used to treat blemishes, bumps, and acne- like lesions caused by a skin disorder called rosacea. Like all antibiotics, it is not effective against viruses such as the common cold and Influenza.

How Should I Use This Medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on your prescription label. It is best to take this medicine without food, but if it upsets your stomach take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early except on your doctor’s advice.

Over dosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Tell your provider if your symptoms do not improve. Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days or if its severe or watery. Do not take this medicine just before going to bed. It may not dissolve properly when you lie down and can cause pain in your throat. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine to also help reduce irritation in your throat. This medicine can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths. Avoid antacids, aluminum, calcium, magnesium, and iron products for 4 hours before and 2 hours after taking your dose of this medicine. For women: antibiotics can weaken the effects of oral birth control pills, please use alternative birth control until you have finished your medication and have your next period.

NOTE: This is a summary. It does not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. For a full list of possible side effects see www.drugs.com